SRC-SEW S.B. 481 77(R)BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research CenterS.B. 481
By: Duncan
State Affairs
5/28/2001
Enrolled


DIGEST AND PURPOSE 

Under current law, most state agencies that require routine regulatory
reports do not, for various reasons, accept electronic filings.  S.B. 481
requires the Department of Information Resources to advise and consult with
state agencies to determine opportunities for allowing persons to
electronically file required information with agencies, while identifying
costs associated with electronic reporting. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a
state officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Chapter 2054C, Government Code, by adding Section
2054.063, as follows: 

Sec. 2054.063.  ELECTRONIC REPORTING TO STATE AGENCIES.  Requires the
Department of Information Resources (department) to advise and consult with
state agencies to assess opportunities for allowing persons to
electronically file with an agency any information the agency requires.
Requires the department to identify the cost of implementing an electronic
reporting procedure and any barriers to electronic reporting.  Authorizes
the department to perform certain stated functions. 

SECTION 2.  Requires the department to make recommendations to the
legislature about opportunities for electronic reporting in state
government not later than September 1, 2002. 

SECTION 3.  Effective date:  September 1, 2001.